BBC Philharmonic invites amateurs to play in celebratory concert

The BBC Philharmonic is inviting non-professional musicians in Cumbria to perform with them in a concert that will be broadcast live on local radio in October.

The project, which is part of the celebrations for BBC Radio Cumbria's 40th birthday, will see a community chorus and orchestra performing a work inspired by Dukas's The Sorcerer's Apprentice with the BBC Philharmonic.

No musical experience is required to join in and the minimum age for participants is eight.

'We welcome anyone who wants to join, either as a player or a singer,' says Martin Maris from the BBC Philharmonic. 'We are after keen amateurs who already play, rusty returners who may not have picked up their instrument for years, and even total newcomers who could sing in the chorus or join the percussion section. We would be delighted for anyone who is curious to come along and just have a go.'

Rehearsals will start in September ready for the performance on 19 October. BBC Radio Cumbria will be following the project. For more information, visit the BBC Philharmonic website.